Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Racing Santander full-back Jorge Salinas, who is their back-up option should they miss out on Lewis Hall.
United's interest in Salinas
The Red Devils have been keeping tabs on the 19-year-old Spanish teenager, who impressed at the European Under-19 Championship this summer, where Spain claimed the trophy. Salinas played a key role last season as his boyhood club won promotion to La Liga.
Spanish newspaper SPORT claim that Santander's Salinas has emerged as a target. United are prepared to pay his €16m (£13.7m) release clause, but it remains to be seen how willing the player is to make the move. His preference is thought to be a move to Barcelona, who see him as a replacement for Joao Cancelo, set to join Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League.
Hall pursuit and Newcastle uncertainty
United's primary target is Newcastle's Lewis Hall, who has continued to blossom since moving to St James' Park from Chelsea. Newcastle are in no hurry to cash in on Hall and would demand an offer in excess of £50m before considering a sale, which has left United looking elsewhere.
The Magpies are in a period of transition, with Eddie Howe having just ended his five-year tenure. Bruno Guimaraes is being pursued by Arsenal and could follow Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali out the door. United are looking to seize on the uncertainty around the club.
Left-back situation at United
United's first-choice left-back is Luke Shaw, who has been an impressive and consistent performer, but fitness has been an issue throughout his career and the versatile defender is now 31. Left-back is an area cited as one where they could improve their squad.
Already this summer, United have signed Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, with bolstering their midfield a priority. They could yet add more quality in that area, but left-back remains a target position.
